January 13, 2018

Image credit: The wub

The Cambridge Union has today released its full Lent 2018 termcard, which promises a 'jam-packed schedule of events' throughout the months ahead, with visits from a wide variety of stars from various fields. Building on the inclusivity developments from previous terms, the Union's current President Jonah Surkes said of the Lent plans 'the lineup features something for everyone', stating that 'even if you aren’t into A-listers and political heavyweights, we are also so pleased to be platforming speakers with fascinating and important stories to tell'. Suitably, the schedule includes business, political and showbiz names, alongside charity and social rights campaigners.

For those interested in sport, there is an unmissable lineup: at the end of the first week of term, the Union is hosting Pelé; a figure regarded as the best footballer of all time who remains the only international player to win three FIFA World Cups. Later in February, Dame Katherine Grainger, Great Britain's most successful female Olympian, is also scheduled.

Alongside these stars comes a wealth of political names: Jacob Rees Mogg and Nicky Morgan will be going head-to-head in a debate on Brexit, whilst Louise Mensch will feature in the first ever Union debate on the topic of North Korea. In March, General Michael Flynn, who served as National Security Advisor to President Trump, and played a vital role in the US counterterrorism efforts, will also visit to speak.

In the music field, James Blunt is scheduled to arrive in January, whilst the legendary Peter Andre, whose 'Mysterious Girl' has topped the charts twice, in the 1990s and early 2000s, is promised in March.

Katie Price is also appearing at the Union, debating celebrity culture against Reverend Richard Coles. Other showbiz highlights include Fearne Cotton, who will be debating mental health awareness, as well as speeches from Davina McCall and Orlando Bloom. Bryan Cranston, the star of hit TV series Breaking Bad, will also be visiting.